Reevaluating the Cleaning Products Industry: The Need for a "Cleaner" Approach
Have you ever paused to wonder the true impact of the cleaning products industry? The reality is that it may not be as "clean" as it appears. Just take a stroll down the detergent aisle of a supermarket and consider the sheer number of plastic bottles on display—it's quite impressive, isn't it?
Did you know that these single-use household bottles contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions? A recent study published in the scientific journal Nature reveals a troubling prediction: if we continue on our current trajectory, the global plastics industry will be accountable for a staggering 15% of total greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Furthermore, the transportation of these water-based cleaning products adds to the emissions dilemma. The carbon dioxide emissions from trucks involved in their distribution are substantial. Moreover, most of these bottles are not designed for reuse, resulting in waste accumulation. Sadly, packaging and empty bottles often find their way to landfills, with only a fraction being recycled. What's more, many conventional cleaning products contain toxic ingredients such as chlorine, ammonia, and formaldehyde, which pose risks to both human health and the environment.
Enter the concept of green cleaning—an approach focused on using products and methods that are better for our planet and well-being. Eco-friendly cleaning products can help reduce air and water emissions while playing a role in addressing ozone depletion and climate change.
First and foremost, we must acknowledge the problem at hand. How many plastic bottles will we discard each week, and for how many years to come?
Fortunately, there is hope on the horizon. When I first embarked on my search for detergent tablets, there were only two companies in Europe offering such alternatives. Now, every week brings the discovery of new players in the market. This surge in options is promising, wouldn't you agree?
Allow me to introduce Skosh cleaning tablets—a Swedish company that is experiencing rapid growth, a clear indicator of significant market interest. For every order placed, they pledge to plant a tree (though it's worth noting that this initiative is not yet available in Greece, but we can certainly advocate for it in the future).
Skosh cleaning tablets come in beautiful bottles made entirely from 100% recycled plastic. You can expect to find them on the website soon. In the meantime, I've personally been using a glass bottle with a spray attachment.
Furthermore, all their products carry a vegan certification, meaning that none of their ingredients are animal-based, and no animal testing has been conducted. With each tablet, we contribute to saving the environment from yet another plastic bottle.
Skosh is also EcoCert certified and prioritizes cleanliness without compromising on scent. Currently, they offer bathroom and general-purpose cleaners, with new products on the horizon.
By choosing brands like Skosh and embracing greener alternatives, we can make a positive impact. Let's strive for a cleaning industry that truly aligns with our values and fosters a healthier planet for future generations.